The state Senate today approved legislation that would bar the use of foreign law in Oklahoma courts. Senate Bill 1015 states that courts shall not enforce any foreign law as a means of mitigating punishment or providing justification for the commission of a crime.

Sen. Dan Newberry, author of the measure, said the bill was written to preserve constitutional rights and guarantees for those who enter Oklahoma courts.

“It’s very simple, you either believe in our laws and believe they ought to take precedent over foreign laws in Oklahoma courts, or you don’t,” said Newberry, R-Tulsa. “Foreign law should never be used to defend the commission of a crime in Oklahoma, and this law simply guarantees that such a scenario will never take place.”

SB 1015 will now advance to the House for consideration.

“Our legal system is an expression of our values, and I firmly believe the people of Oklahoma expect us to safeguard those values,” Newberry said. “I’m grateful to my colleagues who stood with me today in favor of this legislation.”